During my sophomore year of high school, I had a great passion for robotics and decided to elevate my knowledge to the next level. To achieve this, I chose to join a First Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics community team named Robocracy (9773), based in Westchester, NY. This team had been established for approximately four years and had achieved notable success in the past. Comprising about ten individuals and two coaches, the team marked a significant step forward in my robotics journey.

My initial team meeting was quite a surprising experience for me. Witnessing the team’s ability to craft their own custom parts using materials and machines that were entirely new to me was a welcomed change. This feeling was novel, as my previous exposure to more advanced robotics had been limited to Vex, which employed only parts provided in kits. However, despite the initial shock, I found this new challenge to be exactly what I desired – an environment where I could be surrounded by those who possessed more knowledge than I did. This environment facilitated my learning and provided me the opportunity to advance my skills within the field.

One of the most significant skills I acquired during my time on the team was the utilization of 3D design software for crafting and manufacturing custom parts. This instantly captured my interest and eventually prompted me to pursue it further by enrolling in college courses on 3D design. Furthermore, I gained insights into the design process and honed my ability to collaborate with team members, identifying optimal solutions for specific challenges. Another facet of FTC that I hadn’t encountered in Vex robotics was the outreach component. Participating in Robocracy wasn’t solely about constructing robots; it involved aiding our community and creating opportunities for others.